Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner to Receive Annual Flu Vaccination

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, is stressing the importance of Tennesseans receiving influenza vaccinations this flu season. On Tuesday, September 24, Dreyzehner will receive his seasonal flu vaccination at the Department of Health Central Office in Nashville, and will administer flu shots to fellow TDH staff members. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for every person aged six months and older.

Each year, annual epidemics of influenza occur in the fall and winter in the United States. The severity of these epidemics varies and is unpredictable: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates between 55,000 and 430,000 Americans are hospitalized each year with flu-related illnesses. Influenza complications kill between 3,000 and 49,000 Americans each year. Most who die are older adults and those with chronic health problems, but the flu also kills children, pregnant women and healthy adults. Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection with the flu.

Immunization against the flu benefits not only the person receiving the vaccine but also his or her family, friends and coworkers. There are several flu vaccine options available; all are recommended, just pick one that is convenient for you. The vaccine can be given as an injection (the “flu shot”), an intradermal shot with a tiny needle just under the skin, and also comes in a nasal spray. Flu vaccine is widely available throughout Tennessee from county health departments, primary care providers and pharmacies.

Who:   John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Health

                                                             David Reagan, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer, Tennessee Department of Health

What:  Commissioner Dreyzehner receives seasonal flu vaccination

                                When:   Tuesday, September 24, 1 p.m. Central Time

                                Where:  Tennessee Department of Health

                                                                425 Fifth Avenue North

                                                                Nashville, Tennessee 37243

            MEDIA NOTE:  Please plan to arrive early to be in place prior to 12:30 p.m.

CONTACTS:  Woody McMillin, Woody.McMillin@tn.gov or 615-741-3446 OR Bill Christian, Bill.Christian@tn.gov or 615-741-2308